Venetia van Kuffeler discovers The Langham, London’s Sterling Suite is the ideal London ‘home from home’ for VIPs and Heads of State The Langham, London

There can be no doubt that 2015 was an enormous year for The Langham, London, as Europe’s first ‘Grand Hotel’ celebrated its 150th anniversary. Celebrations tied in with mass renovations including the unveiling of the magnificent Sterling Suite. At 450 square metres, the space is one of London’s largest and now most coveted suites, reaching a configuration of six bedrooms. Indeed, Heads of State and royal families from around the globe – and even Lady Gaga – are rumoured to have already experienced its virtues. We were lucky to enjoy it for ourselves for a night.

Although not necessary in our case, private lift access ensures guests seeking complete privacy can reach the suite without being seen. The vast lobby area is complete with spectacular fresh flower displays, which continue in every room. Supremely comfortable, the luxurious drawing room lies at the heart of the suite, complete with large desk area, piano, open fireplace and butler’s bar. Sliding doors connect to a dining area, which would also work for board meetings, comfortably seating eight. In the home theatre lounge, there is a vast screen ideal for catching up on the latest world news. The master bedroom has its own salon living area and expansive dressing room, with space for guests to stay for months on end (which, indeed, I’m told they do). Fit for a king, the marble bathroom is the finest I’ve ever seen, with television screens above the sink and at the foot of the standalone bath, Apsrey toiletries, antique mirrors and the ultimate decadence: an electronic Japanese ‘Toto’ toilet.

With bespoke furnishings from Britain’s finest craftsmen, the Sterling Suite really has to be seen to be believed. Hand-blown Murano glass light fixtures hang from the ceilings and walls, and furniture is custom made with gold and silver leaf hand-painted finishes. Opened by the touch of a button, heavy silk curtains are exquisitely embroidered, and technology is accessed via i-Pads in each room or the mirror in the drawing room that transforms into a technology hub at the touch of a button.

Two additional master bedrooms provide an expansive proposition for VIP and family stays, and three further rooms adjoin the main hall. From the suite’s kitchen, a personal 24-hour butler discreetly anticipates every aspect of the guests’ stay. Furthermore, Sterling Suite guests enjoy unlimited access to the new Langham Club Lounge, including private check-in/out, or a quick drink or bite to eat for breakfast or tea.

A space that will certainly indulge even the most elite traveller, the sheer size and beauty of the Sterling Suite is staggering. But the space is amazingly comfortable and practical too, providing the perfect ‘home from home’ for VIPs in London.

1C Portland Place, 
London W1B 1JA  T: +44 (0)20 7636 1000
www.langhamhotels.com